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Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Using a clasp as inspiration

Recently I was approached by The Beadsmith to be a participating designer to showcase their new line of "Elegant Elements" clasps. The idea was that each of us would receive 2 clasps (we even got to pick them out ourselves), and we would design a piece of jewelry around them. Then they would use them in their promotional materials. Sounded like a win/win to me! I picked out 2 and before I knew it, the beautiful clasps arrived (along with a bonus clasp!)

It was harder than I thought it would be. I always try to match the clasp to the jewelry design, most often beading my own. I have to say this is the first time I created a piece of jewelry around the clasp!!

The first clasp I chose was very simple. I chose it mainly because of it's size. It is very substantial and would work well for big cuff bracelets. So that's what I started with.

First, a picture of the clasp I chose:

I decided I wanted the beading to reflect the swirls in the clasp. I didn’t want to make something really “girly” since the other clasps I chose were gold with crystals and I figured that would be the direction I would go with those.

So I settled on a red and black color scheme with silver accents- a color combo I rarely use, but is very dramatic. I added the rhinestone chain for an added sparkle.

The bead spacing on the swirls was a bit tricky (read trial and error!), but in the end I was happy with the effect.The only thing left to do was to photograph it.I needed to have the clasp front and center on the pics- but in that case it was hard to show the rest of the bracelet.The only solution was to just show only ½ of the clasp.

So the first piece was done- on to the next one!This next one is definitely girly!! (next blog)

Here is the site where the pieces created for this “project” are showcased. Check it out- they are all really amazing!! I am so honored to have been included in this group.

2 comments:

That is a stunning bracelet Betty! I think you have chosen a great design to compliment the clasp and it must have been difficult because usually you would choose a clasp to compliment the bracelet. I love the color combination too. Can't wait to see the next one :)

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About Me

I am a bead artist living and working in Western New York State. I have been beading for many years, but only discovered my real passion for bead embroidery about 6 years ago. Since then I have created many pieces from simple earrings to very elaborate collars.
I sell my work online through Etsy
http://www.bettystephanbeadwork.etsy.com
as well as exhibiting at Art Shows throughout the Eastern U.S.
you can follow me on Facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Betty-Stephan-Beadwork/134426161640
I have won several awards in national contests, including Fire Mountain Gems and Bead Dreams. I have been published in both Bead and Button Magazine and FMG catalogs.